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O'Shea welcomes big squad

John O'Shea believes the increased size of the squad will give Man Utd a welcome boost over Christmas.

By Amanda Cornforth

Last Updated: 21/12/07 1:42pm

Manchester United's John O'Shea believes the increased size of the squad will give the side a welcome boost over the hectic festive period.

Boss Sir Alex Ferguson spent the summer bolstering his team after United faltered at the semi-final stage in Europe last season after asking few players to do a lot of work.

After adding Carlos Tevez, Owen Hargreaves, Anderson and Nani to his squad, Ferguson is taking no chances this time round and, when the Red Devils open their festive programme against Everton at home on Sunday, O'Shea is confident that the option to have more players at their disposal should see them be successful.

Rotating

"It is never easy at this time of year when the games are coming thick and fast and I am sure the manager will be rotating," O'Shea said.

"Everyone who gets their chance will be up for it. That should work in our favour.

"The main thing is when we get on the pitch we keep picking up the three points.

"We are only a point behind Arsenal, so we have a lot to look forward to."

Ferguson's side will receive another boost with Park Ji-sung ready to return after knee surgery, skipper Gary Neville nearing a return following an ankle problem and Paul Scholes due back to full training at the end of January.